Amazon Lists have become a frequently shared and efficient way for people and organizations to get needed items shipped to them directly, without waiting for cash donations to come in or using their own time to purchase necessities.
The fundraising tool is used by a wide variety of online users, especially popular among teachers requesting needed items for classrooms. In the past, Amazon has even "cleared out" the lists of select teachers around the start of the school year. Celebrities and online influencers have also been known to share or clear the lists of both individuals and charities around the country. You might spot Amazon lists linked in the bios of people on Twitter, Instagram, or, more frequently, TikTok — often added at the request of viewers who want to help creators who go viral for sharing personal stories and hardships.
Donating physical items from lists created by organizations and individuals themselves, instead of general fundraising campaigns, might reassure those who have reservations about donating money online. It's one way to feel like you're giving something tangible to causes and people important to you.
Read below for a few tips on how to find and donate to these online lists.
Amazon users have long been able to make their own Lists, formerly known as Wish Lists, and create registries for things like weddings and baby showers, but you might not know how to find others' lists. The site's registry and gifting page holds all the answers for those looking to donate items to individuals like teachers in your area, online strangers asking for help, or even friends in need.
For now, it's not possible to search through Amazon Lists without knowing some key information. First, you'll need the title of the list itself or the name of the list's creator (preferably both). Then, find out what kind of list they created. You can search through Wedding Registries, Baby Registries, Birthday Gift Lists, Holiday Gift Lists, or Custom Gift Lists — there's even lists for pet-specific needs. For general fundraising and donations, most people will probably use the Custom Gift List option.
